The Queen of Hearts was part of a tribute to children’s literature. Various villains including Cruella de Vil and Voldemort also appeared.
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View photos from the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics.
Fireworks exploding around the Olympic torch.
Seven British athletes lighted the caldron.
Paul McCartney performing at the end of the event.
Winged performers on bicycles represented doves, which were released at the ancient Greek games.
Britain’s team entered last, as confetti fell.
The United States team, with the fencer Mariel Zagunis holding the flag. Among the notable athletes spotted were members of the men’s basketball team, including Tyson Chandler, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade.
The Spaniards, enjoying themselves.
Athletes from North Korea entering the stadium.
The Nigerian delegation arriving.
Athletes from the Netherlands arriving at the stadium.
Brazil’s typically flamboyant interpretation of its national colors was on show this year. Lemon and lime pants had a nice pop, especially when paired with neon striped scarves that suggested, perhaps, a nod to Harry Potter.
Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the royal family.
Dancers during the ceremony.
Scenes from the Industrial Revolution were re-enacted.
The Canadian team has been dressed by the retail chain Hudson’s Bay Company since 2008. This year’s designs included a Canada track jacket and chino pants. One athlete was spotted wearing Canada-branded shower slides.
The Queen of Hearts was part of a tribute to children’s literature. Various villains including Cruella de Vil and Voldemort also appeared.
A performer in a huge ball.
In a tribute to the Britain’s National Health Service, hundreds of hospital beds were rolled on the field, with patients and doctors dancing on them.
A multitude of Mary Poppins flew in for the show.
Huge Olympic rings were lowered into the stadium.
Fireworks at Tower Bridge in London before the opening ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympics.
